Help To

The needy

At OPEnE, we believe in collective and sustainable development through collaboration, dignity and inclusivity. We work with women, men, children and youth at different levels of community to build their capacity. We are committed to ensuring that every voice is heard and respected.

Our work is driven by three major themes:

Environmental Justice

Environmental justice and climate resilience are cross-cutting themes that inform all aspects of our work, particularly in communities facing the compounded impacts of environmental degradation and climate change. The increasing natural disasters and environmental threats cannot be ignored. We aim to empower the communities to prepare for climate resilience while addressing the urgent needs such as the windmill project in Mannar and the sand mining issues. Through education, sustainable fisheries, economic empowerment, Self-Help Groups and disaster risk reduction projects we raise awareness to environmental justice and work toward sustainable development that protects both people and the planet.

Integrating Excluded Communities

We are deeply committed to integrating excluded communities into every stage of development. By actively promoting participation in decision-making, we empower individuals — particularly those who are marginalized — to take ownership of their own development journeys. Our model is rooted in empowerment, not charity. We recognize and build upon the strengths already present in communities, equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and the confidence they need to shape sustainable and self-reliant futures.

Providing Psycho-social Support

We recognize that psychosocial wellbeing is essential to building resilient communities, especially in crisis-affected and post-war regions of Sri Lanka. As part of this commitment, Basic Psychosocial Skills (BPS) training—adapted from the globally recognized Psychological First Aid framework—has been integrated across our programs. We are strengthening the capacity of Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and local organizations to provide community-based emotional support, particularly for those experiencing distress due to displacement, violence, or economic hardship. We aim to ensure that psychosocial support is embedded in everything we do—from food security and education to women’s empowerment and disaster preparedness.

Our Main Thematic Area

Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture

Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture

We promote sustainable fishing practices among the local fishing community and empower them to protect their resources.

Gender Equity and Women Empowerment

We empower women through Self Help Groups (SHG), provide nutritional support and financial literacy and training and guide entrepreneurs.

Education and Holistic Child Development

We follow a community-based approach to improve spoken English among students, increase digital learning and training educators with the needed skills.

Community Capacity Building, Governance and Social Cohesion

Instead of merely funding businesses, we equip entrepreneurs by providing materials, conducting awareness sessions and assisting with technical support

Food Security, Resilient and Sustainable Agriculture

We provide technical support and training for farmers and home garden initiatives as well as distribute food security packages to many families.

Environmental Conservation, Disaster Preparedness and Climate Action

We aim to reduce disaster impacts by strengthening local capacity and enabling communities to act early.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) our work aligns with:

No Poverty
Zero Hunger
Good Health and Wellbeing
Quality Education
Gender Equality
Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
Life below Water
Life on Land